Multiscale properties of weeds in no-till system

Background: Weeds have high spatial variability and show clustering behavior, with heterogeneity in scales that can be evaluated through multifractal analysis. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the spatial variability of weeds using multifractal analysis in a no-till area. Methods: Sampling was conducted at 1,015 sampling points in an experimental plot with a regular grid of 5 x 5 m (2.38 ha) with no tillage. The area was cultivated with triticale (Triticum secale), and in the summer of 2011, the area was cultivated with soybean (Glycine max). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multifractal analysis using the box-counting method to determine the scaling properties of the variables. Results: The predominance of Raphanus raphanistrum was identified in the winter crop and Commelina ssp. during the summer. The singularity spectrum showed greater asymmetry for Raphanus raphanistrum and Commelina ssp. in relation to the category of other weeds (OW). The degree of multifractality varied throughout the study period, showing the ecological patterns of the studied species. Scale heterogeneity was revealed, with different degrees of multifractality that evidenced the processes of dispersion and colonization of the environment by the different weed species evaluated. Conclusions: The species Raphanus raphanistrum and Commelina ssp. showed domains of low measurement values, and OW was the most heterogeneous.

Automated summary

The study evaluated the spatial variability of weeds in a no-till area using multifractal analysis. Results showed different levels of multifractality among weed species, indicating varying dispersion and colonization processes. Raphanus raphanistrum and Commelina ssp. exhibited low measurement values, while other weeds were the most heterogeneous.